Charlton Athletic could be set to launch bid to take Matty Taylor to the Valley

THE Robins are considering freeing up some room to bring in a forward this summer - and may let one of their senior strikers depart to free up room.

And Charlton Athletic are keen on bringing in Matty Taylor, according to reports.

The Addicks have been in conversation with Bristol City for some time and have a long-standing interest in Taylor, pictured.

Further, we understand that Lee Bowyer’s side almost recruited Mo Eisa from the Robins back in January.

Indeed, if Lee Johnson had landed another striker in the final days of the window then Eisa would have headed out on loan to the Valley, however when City were unable to bring in another forward the move collapsed.

However, the clubs have maintained a good relationship and that may help the promoted League One side as they follow up on interest in forward Matty Taylor.

Bristol City are happy to let Taylor move on for more first-team opportunities, while the ex-Bristol Rovers man only has 12 months on his current deal.

The Robins wish to cash in and have an able replacement in Antoine Semenyo as CEO Mark Ashton looks to close a switch for one of City’s forward transfer targets such as Kieffer Moore and Lucas Joao. There are further clubs interested in Taylor including some in League One, however - we understand - that former Bristol Rovers boss Darrell Clarke has been knocked back, with Walsall a step too far for the 29-year-old.

Any deal will likely make Bristol City a profit on the fee in the region of £300,000 that was paid to release Taylor in that high-profile crosstown switch back in January 2017 when a minimum fee clause was activated.

Following the move, both Taylor and City boss Lee Johnson received death threats but there will be no such acrimony this time should a transfer be completed.